Jane Hanser

To anyone who has ever had strong-minded, adorably frustrating dog, this book is for you. What you'll find is the true story of Joey, the dog, and his humans. I'm not generally a fan of books told through the eyes of pets, but Joey is hard to resist. There's such joy in reading a story told through such a curious narrator's eyes. I couldn't help but smile as his endless energy caught me up in its web. Ah, to be a dog.

It might sound odd, but if dogs were able to read then this would be a book they'd definitely need on their to-be-read pile. Joey tells us his life story, and the way that it reads is almost like a cautionary tale. From the moment of his birth, to the tragic accident that almost ended everything, his whole existence is laid out on these pages. For those of us who are human readers, this is a story that holds much of the truth of owning a pet. That our love for them knows no bounds. That we might try, and fail, to keep them safe sometimes. That even if something tragic happens, that same love has the ability to see us through.

It was an enjoyable experience to see the world as Joey did, and I'm glad I was given that chance! This probably would have resonated with me a lot more if I actually had a pet at this time. Growing up we were never without a dog, but I've lost touch with that since I became an adult. If I can say anything though, it's that this book really makes me want that companionship back in my life.… (más)

Joey is a very engaging chocolate Labrador with boundless energy and full of curiosity. He is very sociable and welcomes a game, petting or a treat from anyone. His greatest joy is the long early morning runs with his dad. But it is not enough; Joey is always looking for more fun and excitement.

Dogs Don't Look Both Ways by Jane Hanser is an absolutelydelightful story of her adventurous dog. The story is told by Joey himself.

it does not just relate Joey’s escapades; it is a heart-warming tale of the love and dedication between a dog and his people (Mum and Dad) It is also very suitable for children.
Jane’s writing is as enjoyable as Joey’s story. While I am certain Joey dictated the story to Jane it was Jane’s writing skills that polished the book.

Beautiful and clear descriptions associated with scenery, change of seasons and all the sights, sounds and (because it is told by Joey) smells of Joey’s world have the reader right there in Boston with Joey and his Mum and Dad.

In addition to being a good read, as a former Belgian Shepherd Breeder I believe this book should be essential reading for anyone who has or is planning to buy a working dog or high energy breed. It demonstrates the importance of understanding their personality, much of which is passed down through the breed lines.

It was only through their understanding of the Labrador breed (evident when Joey talks about his ancestors) in addition to their boundless love for and dedication to their beautiful dog that Joey’s parents were able to get him through the trauma of his accident and resolve his seemingly limitless desire to seek out more fun, games and new friends.

I was so taken by Joey that I checked out the website www.dogsdontlookbothways.com and picked up Joey’s blog. There is more good advice about understanding a dog’s body language among the posts.

In closing I hope Jane and Joey don’t mind but I’d like to share my favourite paragraph in the book ; one that demonstrates how beautifully it is written:

“This was it. I was now initiated into a long and proud line of Retrievers, bred to run, to
retrieve, to cross streams and valleys, to roam and sniff, to be a friend of men and women (and
other dogs) and to be obedient and gentle. Today I was my father's son and my grandfather's
grandson, my great-grandfather's great-grandson.”

Thank you Jane Hanser for sharing your wonderful Joey with all your readers.

This review is also available on my website www.pam.id.au
… (más)

Joey is a loveable dog who cannot stay out of trouble. He loves to run with his dad, and gets bored when he is home by himself or with his mom. His morning run just isn’t enough exercise for a Labrador retriever. He is always using his senses to find ways out of the backyard fence to explore the world beyond. This always gets him in trouble with his “mom” who usually gets a call from a friend or neighbor who saw him out wandering. One day after Joey “escaped” from his backyard; a car accident nearly kills him. The road back to healing and health is a long and arduous climb for both Joey and his family.

Dogs Don’t Look Both Ways is a well written, character driven story with numerous escapades by Joey. Writing from Joey’s point of view must have been a difficult task for the author. Though it can be an enjoyable read for an adult, I believe it would be better suited to a child who is old enough to read chapter books.… (más)

I came across this book at site where bloggers post their book reviews. I knew I wanted to read it immediately because it was about a dog and well we know here that I am animal minded and loved the furbabies! I reached out to the author and she so kindly and quickly responded.

If you are an animal lover, enjoy reading, like stories that are heartwarming and contain life lessons this book is for you. It is a very quick and enjoyable read from the viewpoint of Joey. Joey, the chocolate Lab, takes on a trip where we learn his rules, lessons and thoughts about his initial mother, his new human family, the runs and walks with his dad, being injured and what comes after. I enjoyed reading this story, especially with the book being in Joey's voice because so many times I wonder what my furbabies must be thinking from my tone, words, actions, etc. So many items I do must seem so arbitrary or random to them!

When I first started reading it I was not sure if it was going to be the standard cutesy dog lover story or something traumatic where I would need tissues for the rest of the day...I am very pleased to say it was neither! It had cute moments and it had some sad moments, but by and large this story enabled us to get to know Joey, his family and what he loved. The runs with his dad and the swims or splashing with his mom are probably my favorite parts of the story. It showed the relationship between human and dog, friends and how they can become family. The only part I got tangled up in was the initial history of his family lineage...but then as we learn more about Joey's roaming ways this made sense and was very applicable!

Upon completing this story I wanted to meet Joey. I wanted to see if he came to events or something of that nature because my goodness he sounded so sweet and fun! I was worried what I would find though when I saw the book was published in 2014 and that when the story occurred Joey was already 9+ old. Sadly while looking at the website and Joey's blog JH shared that Joey has passed, but his passing is the only thing I did not enjoy about this experience. I found the story a joy to read and a true loving testimony to the impact and relationship Joey had with his family, neighbors, vets, mail carriers and all those he encountered!

full review at www.meghanvarner.blogspot.com… (más)